Born in 1844 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Osborne joined the Navy from that state. By August 21, 1876, he was serving as a seaman on the USS Juniata. On that day, while Juniata was at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he rescued a young shipmate from drowning. For this action, he was awarded the Medal of Honor three days later, on August 24.

MOH CITATION:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Juniata, Osborne displayed gallant conduct in rescuing from drowning an enlisted boy of that vessel, at Philadelphia, Pa., 21 August 1876.